KWALE, County—April 22, 2026—The Diani-Chale area in Kwale County is expected to attract more tourists following the official launch of a mangrove eco-tourism attraction known as the Mangrove Boardwalk.
The project, funded by UNEP’s GO Blue programme and implemented by the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI) in collaboration with other partners, cost approximately Sh5.7 million and forms part of ongoing mangrove restoration and conservation efforts in the coastal region.
Speaking during the launch, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano highlighted government efforts, together with development partners, to enhance eco-tourism infrastructure in the region in order to generate income for local communities.
WRTI Board Chair Dr. David Nkedianye described the project as a sustainable mangrove conservation model, urging communities to support such initiatives that promote environmental protection while also improving livelihoods and helping address climate change impacts.
He noted that mangrove ecosystems play a critical role in coastal protection, carbon storage, and marine biodiversity conservation.
Members of the Muungano-Chale community, led by Suleiman Ronga Dzilala, said they intend to use the project to strengthen conservation of marine resources, Kaya forests, and cultural heritage while also creating economic opportunities.
The launch event also included the planting of about 20,000 mangrove seedlings as part of broader restoration efforts in the area.
The ceremony was attended by Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, senior officials from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and other stakeholders in the conservation and tourism sector.